March 30th, 2010 by Vicki Restivo Categories: MIAMI REAL ESTATEComments: Comments Off on Moving to a New Home … with Pets… Careful with the Back Yard!

Moving Day…. with pets. Trying to coordinate a move with pets can be a challenge. Get collars and tags before the move… with your new address. Keep your pets secured somewhere where they can’t escape in all the confusion of movers and packers.

Before moving day, check fences and gates for gaps where your pet might wriggle through and escape…and… get recommendations on a local veterinarian.

Give some thought as to whether to move your pets at the start of moving day, or once the movers have left. It will likely depend on whether you are moving close by (and taking loads over piece meal) , or travelling a greater distance. And it may depend on what and where you are moving from, and to.

If you’re moving to a house with avocado trees, be aware that dogs can get sick from avocados. They contain a substance known as persin, which can cause diarrhea and lethargy, and damage the heart muscle… Avocados can also cause breathing problems in birds. Since Miami has an abundance of avocados, it’s worth being aware of.

Our yard is full of avocados and mangos. The squirrels and wild birds get to the fruit… and so do our dogs… who gnaw on the ones that fall, and fortunately have never had any adverse reactions.

Pets can have adverse reactions to pesticides, snail bait, and frogs. If you suspect that your pet has ingested something they shouldn’t, the number for ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center is 888-426-4435.

Other food stuffs which can adversely affect your pet (dog/cat) are: raw yeast/bread dough (causing alcohol poisoning), garlic and onions ( causing anemia by damaging the red blood cells), grapes (causing kidney damage), and chocolate (causing heart problems and seizures). If you suspect that your pet has ingested something they shouldn’t, the number for poison control is above.

As with people, pets need time to adjust to their new surroundings. Make sure pets have water, shade and air conditioning, and food. Pets (and children) adjust quickly. A house is what you sell, and leave. Your home is what you move into… and where you will make your new life and memories… with family, friends and pets. If you are looking to move and you’d like the help of an experienced Realtor, please give me a call. And for other helpful moving tips for buyers and sellers: MiamiRealEstateCafe.com